July 8, 2010
UK farmers face feed shortfall on dry spell
Livestock farmers from across UK have been reporting significant forage shortages as a result of a lack of rain, with reduction in silage yields of up to 40% compared to last year and hay crop down by up to 50%.
A lack of forage now and for the winter has been enough to force some producers to reduce stock numbers significantly. In Cheshire rumours have also been circulating that several dairy farms only had several weeks left of silage stock, according to reports.
Experts have urged farmers to get forage analysed given the extreme conditions. "It's important farmers use this information to formulate a feed plan, considering options such as planting a catch-crop if necessary and if soil moisture allows," an analyst said.
Straw prices have also been reported to be making up to GBP100 (US$151.77)/acre which is also hampering farmer's efforts when trying to find alternative feeds.
